In the first August issue of Weekly Jump in Japan, Dragon Quest series creator Yuji Horii is questioned on a number of aspects of the next entry in the iconic series: Dragon Quest XI: In Search of Departed Time. He chats about many important issues related to the game, so scroll down to have a look!

Thanks to Gematsu, we can bring you a translated version of the interview. In it, Horii discusses the game's theme, the 30th anniversary of Dragon Quest, protagonist, multi-platform release and more.

Interview Translation

Please tell us your role in Dragon Quest XI, Mr. Horii.

Horii: "I took on a supervisor-like role starting with Dragon Quest X, but I'm back on the scene in full force for Dragon Quest XI. I'm really shepherding it from start to finish, beginning with scenario creation. I want to also be involved in the final optimizations of the battles, etc."

What's the theme of this game's story?

"This time it's also the 30th anniversary of Dragon Quest, and we have the subtitle 'In Search of Departed Time.' We're putting a heavy emphasis on that 30th anniversary. The story itself has the theme of 'time,' so we're hoping that people who have followed the series all along will have that sense of nostalgia, and that new players will have a sense of fun and excitement.

The same may be said of the supported platforms. It's already been announced, but Dragon Quest XI will be released on two: PlayStation 4 and 3DS. Furthermore, on 3DS, we you can enjoy both 2D and 3D. You can choose to play in either old pixel-style 2D graphics or fleshed-out 3D. Of course, you can switch [between modes] in the middle of the game, as well. Including the leading edge PlayStation 4, with 2D, quasi-3D, and full 3D, we're giving you various types of Dragon Quest so you can follow its historical evolution."

You guys also revealed the logo...

"The logo gives off the impression that we're turning back to Dragon Quest I, but the dragon in the background is actually facing in the opposite direction from the Dragon Quest I logo. It's been a long time since we had the number behind the title, as well. In many ways, it is a sign that we're returning to our origins, while still evolving. It takes the idea of Dragon Quest I, but we're beginning anew with Dragon Quest XI."

What's the reason you’ve chosen to make Dragon Quest XI for these two platforms?

"Well, we knew we wanted as many people as possible to be able to play it. We'd like people to be able to really settle in and play on a console, but at the same time it was great to have so many people playing Dragon Quest IX when it came out on a handheld, so we were really torn over which system to put it on. In the end, we just said, 'Well, why don't we just make it for both platforms?!' and kicked off the project. We thought about what style would be best for each platform, and the results are what we have now. It's pretty interesting that you can play the latest game in 2D pixel form, right? Of course, you can fully enjoy the story of Dragon Quest XI even in this mode."

When do you think the game will be released?

"We're working hard with the goal to release it before the Dragon Quest 30th anniversary year ends, so please look forward to it."

What other things are in store for the 30th anniversary?

"Actually, we've been planning a lot of events. Most of it still has to be kept secret, but I want to stir up even more excitement than the 25th anniversary. We're thinking about various projects, and a lot of games are coming out, so please look forward to the future of Dragon Quest."

Other Comments

On the PlayStation 4 Version

"The beautiful images, the sense of space... it's all just amazing. For example, you can clearly see people and monsters who are still way off in the distance. The idea is to give players the sense that the world is there, and in motion."

On the 3DS Version

"At the start of the adventure, there will be 2D classic events on the bottom screen, and 3D events that unfold on the top screen. Taking full advantage of Nintendo 3DS's capabilities, we’'re pursuing a sense of fun that is unique to Nintendo 3DS."

On the Protagonist

"His background and everything has already been decided, but... the full details are still secret (laughs). But... he's a cool hero, you know. You have Toriyama-sensei's design, so use your imagination."

If you're yet to see the game in action, make sure to check out the first gameplay trailer. No plans have been made to localise Dragon Quest XI in the west, but we'll bring you more details as they emerge.